Biography
Andrey Plekhanov led a normal life: he worked, exercised, and with his wife loved spending time outdoors and meeting friends. However, in May 2025, his home was searched: Andrey was thrown to the floor, and his hands were tied with a cable tie. In the temporary detention facility, where he spent 24 hours, he was given neither food nor water, and in the pretrial detention center, he covered himself with his jacket for the first four nights, as he was not given a blanket.
Andrey was born in December 2000 in Zarafshan, Navoiy Region, Uzbekistan. His mother, a qualified engineering technologist, raised him alone. Later, she changed her profession and began working in the service industry. The family moved to Tomsk when Andrey was about 12 years old. His mother tried to instill in her son respect for the Bible and spiritual values, despite the fact that she herself did not know much about God at the time.
As a child, Andrey danced professionally. After moving to Tomsk, he wanted to continue with a well-known dance group. Later, he decided to change his hobby and took up basketball. At school, he especially liked physics and physical education. He also liked drawing and photography.
After school, the young man entered the College of Arts in Tomsk and received a diploma in photography. Later, he did alternative civilian service, working in the post office. For some time, he worked as a barista, and for the last two years he has been a food technician.
Andrey's mother started studying the Bible when he was 13 years old. Soon her brother and her son joined her. Andrey's grandmother also showed interest in the Bible. In 2016, the young man wanted to dedicate his life to serving God. He made this decision as he was convinced by the stories his mother told him about about how God answers prayers, as well as the examples of believers he met. He was especially moved by their warm and respectful relationships.
Andrey met his future wife, Victoriya, when they were still teenagers, as their families were friends. In 2023, they started courting, and in 2024 they got married. Victoriya shares her husband's religious beliefs. She worked in manicure, in a photo shop, and then as a packer in a store.
Andrey still loves sports and enjoys playing football and volleyball with friends. He enjoys traveling, discovering new places, and meeting new people. The couple loves hiking outdoors, and especially watching sunsets. They also organize board game nights with friends.
Andrey's relatives, including his grandfather, who does not share his beliefs, consider what is happening unfair.